Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons^™

Proteomic Analysis Of Central Amygdala Systems Regulated By Mifepristone In The Context Of Alcohol Dependence, Stephanie S. Lee, Laura Monteagudo Romero, John W. Lammons, Jennifer M. Klein, Kimberly N. Edwards, Jessie J. Guidry, Scott Edwards

School of Graduate Studies Faculty Publications

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by escalated alcohol use and the emergence of negative affective symptoms. Studies have described a dysregulation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling in the context of AUD at the levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and central amygdala (CeA). A functional increase in CeA GR activity occurs during alcohol withdrawal in alcohol-dependent animal models, and the GR antagonist mifepristone reduces alcohol-seeking and drinking behaviors in both rodents and humans. The aims of this study were to determine differential CeA protein expression in alcohol-dependent rats and examine the effects of mifepristone treatment in …

Adult Adhd Is Linked To Higher Illicit Drug Use And Prescription Drug Misuse, Andrew S. London, Kevin M. Antshel, Joshua Grove, Iliya Gutin, Shannon M. Monnat

Population Health Research Brief Series

Adolescents and young adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are more likely than their peers without ADHD to use illicit drugs and misuse prescription drugs. This brief summarizes findings from a study that used data from the National Wellbeing Survey (NWS) to describe differences in lifetime and past-year use of 7 illicit drugs (marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and hallucinogens) and misuse of 4 categories of prescription medications (opioids, tranquilizers, sedatives, and stimulants) between U.S. adults ages 18-64 with and without self-reported healthcare provider-diagnosed ADHD in 2023. The authors find that adults with ADHD are 1.6 to 3.3 times …

Gender Diversity, Substance Cognitions, And Alcohol, Nicotine/Tobacco, And Cannabis Use Among Youth, Luisa Kcomt, Philip T. Veliz, John Jardine, Rebecca J. Evans-Polce, Jennifer Clift, Sean Esteban Mccabe, Cynthia Arslanian-Engoren

Social Work Faculty Publications

Purpose: We aimed to classify youth using a longitudinal, multidimensional construct of gender, and examine associations of gender subgroups with substance cognitions and substance use.

Methods: We used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study (N=11,868 youth ages 9-10 years at baseline [2016-2018] through the year 4 follow-up [ages 13-14 years, 2020-2022]) to conduct latent class models using measures of gender identity, felt gender, gender expression, and gender non-contentedness. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess associations of gender classes with curiosity to use, intention to use, and use of alcohol, nicotine/tobacco, and cannabis, respectively, adjusting for sociodemographic factors. …

The Science Of Sound: Studying The Cognitive, Emotional, And Physiological Effects Of Frequency, Genre, And Music, Jett Yarborough

Senior Honors Theses

Music influences emotion, physiology, and cognition, yet little is known about how the frequency it is tuned to affects these influences. Prior research has shown that music tuned to 432 Hz can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep. My colleagues and I conducted two studies to investigate this. Our research found that music tuned to 432 Hz promotes a significant increase in memory retention and induces a state of focus and relaxation. These results suggest that shifting from the standard tuning frequency of 440 Hz to 432 Hz could have a profoundly positive impact on our daily lives. …

Fact Sheet For Parents: What You Need To Know About Alcohol, Aaron Hunt, Gabriela Murza, Alyssa Ferrin

All Current Publications

This fact sheet explains what alcohol is and why it is dangerous for kids and teens. It offers ideas for how parents can help prevent underage drinking and provides resources to help parents..

Public Awareness Of Controlled Drug Abuse And Dependence In Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study, Khalid Mohammed Alharbi, Amal Faraj Alotaibi

Saudi Toxicology Journal

Background: This study examines public awareness in Saudi Arabia regarding con- trolled drug abuse and dependence. It aims to evaluate public knowledge of controlled drugs, their complications, legal considerations, and exposure to related campaign. The study also explored predictors of public awareness of controlled drug abuse and dependence. Methods: A cross-sectional survey utilized a random sampling technique to recruit 529 participants aged 18 or older across Saudi Arabia. Participants were recruited via an online questionnaire distributed from January to February 2024, targeting diverse demographics (e.g., age, gender, region). The survey assessed knowledge of controlled drugs, their effects, and explored perceptions …

Toward A Unified Neuroaesthetic Framework For Art-Based Interventions In Substance Use Recovery - A Review, Piper Hutson, James Hutson

Faculty Scholarship

Art-based interventions have gained increasing recognition as complementary strategies for substance use disorder (SUD) recovery and prevention, yet the field remains fragmented across clinical art therapy, community-based programs, and expressive digital practices. This article advances a unified neuroaesthetic framework that integrates sensory regulation, narrative integration, and interpersonal synchronization as the core mechanisms of healing. Drawing on recent U.S.-based empirical studies (post-2020), the paper synthesizes evidence from multiple modalities, including visual arts, music therapy, dance/movement practices, and digital storytelling, each demonstrating measurable effects on craving reduction, stress regulation, identity reconstruction, and social connection. Neuroscientific insights are central: findings highlight how creative …

Applying Contextual Behavioral Science To Address Addictions In Monsters, Chase Hollander

Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects

The dominant essentialist paradigm in addiction treatment often conceptualizes addiction as a curse or plague which seizes the individual afflicted by it. Such views are reinforced by neurobiological interventions like Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). While MAT can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, its long-term efficacy is mixed, and its emphasis on abstinence as a primary outcome limits its scope. Addiction is a multifaceted phenomenon shaped by physiological, psychological, social, and systemic factors—including stigma, moral judgment, and structural oppression. Essentialist approaches frequently pathologize individuals and obscure these broader influences. In contrast, contextual behavioral sciences and therapies aligned with functional contextualism such as …

Enhancing Research Training Curricula Through The Ethical Integration Of Ai-Powered Tools: Opportunities And Challenges For Counselor Educators, Joshua C. Watson, Chris Leeth, Kevin Wong, Justen Schroeder

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

This article reviews existing training models used to teach research courses and facilitate researcher identity development in counselor education curricula and suggests how generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) can be incorporated into these courses as an instructional aid that improves researcher efficiency. Various GenAI tools used across stages of the research process are introduced with a discussion of their ethical implications and how they can be integrated into exiting lesson plans.

Counselor-In-Training Perceptions Of Artificial Intelligence: Implications For Counselor Education, Leo Gonzalez Jr., Deija Mccalla

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

This study examined the perceptions of counselors-in-training (CIT) on artificial intelligence (AI) in counseling practice and training. 31 CIT responded to three open-ended questions about the benefits, drawbacks, and overall attitudes of integrating AI into counseling practice and education. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the responses. The findings showed that CIT perceive AI as a clinical support tool, especially for tasks such as diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, CIT voiced concerns of potential overreliance on AI, ethical risks, confidentiality concerns, and the possible loss of human connection. Furthermore, although several CIT expressed cautious optimism regarding AI's use in counselor …

A Pilot-Study Evaluating The Fidelity Of Chatgpt In Client Simulations, Eric Tod Beeson, Yusen Zhai, Russell Fulmer, Andrew M. Burck, Rakesh Maurya

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

Generative AI (genAI) is expanding in counselor education. This pilot study evaluated ChatGPT 4o's voice mode for simulating client scenarios during 53-minute mock-intake sessions with master’s-level counseling students. Analyzing eight domains (authenticity, consistency, emotional expression, empathy, cultural dynamics, self-awareness, goal setting, and role play confusion), ChatGPT’s responses showed good to excellent fidelity when compared to a typical client. Limitations such as formulaic and idealized responses raised authenticity concerns. ChatGPT offers a scalable, cost-effective tool for pre-practicum training, with potential to enhance skill development across the curriculum. Educators are encouraged to integrate genAI thoughtfully, prioritizing ethical considerations and iterative prompt refinement.

Utilizing Artificial Intelligence Therapeutic Adjuncts To Support Autistic Adults Between Counseling Sessions, Carlos J. Castaneda Jr, Nicole Noble, Afroze N. Shaikh

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mental health care presents innovative opportunities for therapeutic interventions. This pilot study examined the use of a customized Artificial Intelligence Therapeutic Adjunct (AITA) as a supplementary counseling tool for adults with level one autism spectrum disorder who attended weekly counseling sessions. Using a Single Subject Design to review trends in mental health symptoms and perceptions of the AITA, participants engaged with the AITA over four weeks, completed weekly anxiety and depression assessments, and post-intervention and satisfaction surveys. Thematic Analysis identified common counseling concerns and the AITA’s use of counseling techniques. Although findings suggest …

Reimagining The Counseling Profession: Preparing Counselors For Ai And Digital Health Integration, Carl J. Sheperis, Dusti L. Annan-Coultas, Caronne C. C. Rush

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

Digital health technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming mental healthcare delivery, creating new opportunities and challenges for counseling practice. This article examines digital health applications in counseling, including telehealth, mobile apps, digital therapeutics, virtual reality, and AI-powered tools. We explore key implications for practice, including enhanced accessibility, impacts on therapeutic relationships, and ethical considerations. The article presents a six-domain competency framework covering privacy and security, technical proficiency, ethical literacy, clinical integration, therapeutic adaptability, and administrative management. A case study illustrates the practical application of hybrid digital care, while a discussion of counselor education highlights the need for curriculum updates. …

Letter From The Editors: Special Issue: Artificial Intelligence In Professional Counseling And Counselor Preparation, Rachel Jacoby, Sandra Logan-Mckibben

Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision

No abstract provided.

Courtroom To Clinic: Where I Found The Work I Love, Christina Fay Bucarey

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio reflects my journey through the Master of Social Work program, highlighting my growth in clinical practice, policy advocacy, and cultural responsiveness. Drawing from experiences in treatment court, addiction counseling, tribal and non-tribal community contracts, and my generalist- and specialist-year practicum, it demonstrates my application of trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions, including adapted DBT groups within Indigenous communities. Through the lens of the Five Elements of Advanced Integrated Practice, I connect coursework, practicum learning, and professional development, such as my involvement with the NASW board, to show how I’ve developed the competencies required for ethical, effective, and community-centered social work practice.

Mental Health And Substance Use Interventions Within Muslim Community Spaces: A Community Based-Participatory Research Proposal, Halah Mansour Alayleh

Master's Projects and Capstones

Background. Muslim Americans face significant mental health and substance use challenges compounded by Islamophobic discrimination, cultural stigma, and barriers to accessing culturally competent services. They also significantly underuse professional mental health services. Purpose. This study aims to collaborate with Muslim communities within the San Francisco Bay Area to develop a replicable intervention framework for addressing mental health and substance use stigma within mosques and other Muslim community spaces. Methods. The proposal uses a community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodology while integrating the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and stigma theory in the framework. This proposal outlines the four phases of intervention …

Review Of Alcohol Use Among Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Peoples: Patterns, Impacts And Community-Led Responses, Teagan J. Weatherall, Ks Kylie Lee, Annalee Stearne, Monika Dzidowska, Nicole Hewlett, Lynette Bullen, Taleah Reynolds, Summer Loggins, James H. Conigrave

Journal of the Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet

This review provides an overview of alcohol use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples using the latest research available. It has been designed to update the evidence published since the previous review conducted in 2018 on this topic (Review of the harmful use of alcohol among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by Prof Dennis Gray, Dr Annalee Stearne and colleagues) (Gray et al., 2018).

In this updated review, we discuss the historical context and scope of alcohol use among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, impacts on individuals and whole communities, relevant national policies and strategies, present …

Exploring The Relationship Between Cannabis Use Motives And Readiness To Change Among Young Adult College Students, Emma Kathryn Rawls

Psychology Theses & Dissertations

Cannabis use among young adult college students has risen steadily over the past decade, raising concerns about the associated health, academic, and psychological consequences. While cannabis use motives and readiness to change have each been linked to use patterns and outcomes, limited research has examined how these factors interact. The current study investigated whether readiness to change, based on the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), moderates the relationship between cannabis use motives and cannabis-related consequences as well as past-30-day use frequency. A sample of 100 college students 18-25 years old (M_age = 20.08, SD = 2.12; 67% female; 55.0% Black or …

How Was Rehab? A Follow-Up To A Randomized Effectiveness Control Trial Of A Brief Acceptance And Commitment Therapy Protocol For Inpatient Detoxification Patients, Alexander J. Twohy

Dissertations

Residential treatment for Substance Use Disorders (SUD) is a common treatment modality. However, the literature is sparse on modifiable predictors that affect change during the residential treatment stay. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for SUDs. Weststrate et al. (2023), in a randomized controlled effectiveness trial, compared ACT plus medication management to medication management during detoxification. The addition of ACT increased consumer satisfaction and ACT skills use, while decreasing psychological inflexibility and reducing withdrawal symptoms.

This study explored whether the brief ACT intervention had impacts during participants' subsequent residential stay. Forty out of …

“Medication Is Only 10% Of Recovery”: A Mixed-Method Analysis Of Facilitators And Barriers To The Equitable Implementation Of Medications For Opioid Use Disorder Treatment, Alexandra Hernandez-Vallant

Psychology ETDs

Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), the gold standard treatment for OUD, are underutilized. Yet, research on MOUD clinical encounters is limited. Attention to social determinants of health (SDOH) can help improve engagement and retention in MOUD treatment. This dissertation project describes development of a clinical vignette-based survey using a two phase exploratory sequential design to examine the extent to which SDOH influence clinical decision-making among MOUD providers. Study 1 included interviews with 23 providers to learn their perspectives on facilitators/barriers to MOUD treatment and the clinical and social determinants most influential to their clinical decision-making. Study 2 involved development …